Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya, one of the smallest states in India. It is also the headquarters of the East Khasi Hills district and is situated at an average altitude of 4,908 feet above sea level, with the highest point being Lum Shyllong at 6,447 feet. The city had a population of 260,520 according to the 2001 census. It is said that the rolling hills around the town reminded the European settlers of Scotland. Hence, Shillong is also known as Scotland of the East. Shillong has steadily grown in size and significance since it was made the civil station of the Khasi and Jaintia Hills in 1864 by the British. In 1874, on the formation of Assam as a Chief Commissioner's Province, it was chosen as the headquarters of the new administration because of its convenient location between the Brahmaputra and Surma valleys and more so because the climate of Shillong was much cooler than tropical India. Shillong remained the capital of undivided Assam until the creation of the new state of Meghalaya on January 21, 1972, when Shillong became the capital of Meghalaya and Assam moved its capital to Dispur in Guwahati.

When: Christmas & months of March – AprilThe population, a majority of which consist of Christians, is approximately 260,000 situated at an altitude of 1,495 mts. The town was established by the Britishers and one can see that touch in the old styled churches. There are a number of churches in the town: two of the most beautiful churches are the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians and the All Saints Church opposite the State Library, a small but beautiful church which has the same original Victorian wooden architecture. Because of all these features.

Shillong comes to its best colors in the month of December, when there is Christmas celebrations everywhere and every one is busy buying toys and gifts for their loved ones. Christmas carols are heard every where, young guys and girls dressed as Santa gifting toys and candies to children. Shillong is one of the best places to celebrate Christmas in India and on the Christmas Eve you can get a panoramic view of the whole town from Shillong peak.

By Air: Shillong airport at Umroi connects to only Kolkata. Guwahati is the nearest major airport, which is nearly 100 km away from Shillong. Shillong can be reached by taxi car and the fare is about Rs 2000. Guwahati Airport is well connected to many major cities in India, including Delhi, Agartala, Aizwal, Kolkata and Imphal. Delhi and Kolkata are the international airports close to Guwahati, both are nearly 1100 km from Guwahati. International travelers can connect to Guwahati through Kolkata or Delhi.

BY Train: Nearest railhead to Shillong is Guwahati, which is at distance of 100 km away. Shillong can be reached by taxi car and the fare is about Rs 2000. The Paltan Bazaar Railway Station in Guwahati is a major railway junction on the North-East Frontier Railway. Guwahati is well connected with all the major railheads of India.

BY BUs: Shillong bus stand is located at the city center and regular bus services to Guwahati are available. The State Road Transport Public buses and the private tourist bus providers operate bus services from Shillong to the many cities in Meghalaya and the neighboring state. The bus stand is located in the heart of Shillong